Breast reconstruction surgery is a life-changing procedure that can help women regain their confidence and body image after a mastectomy. It is a surgical procedure that helps recreate the breasts after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Breast reconstruction surgery can restore one or both breasts to normal shape and appearance. It can either happen right after the breast cancer surgery (immediate reconstruction) or a month or year later (delayed construction). If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, you must scroll down. Here’s all you need to know about this procedure –
Understanding Breast Reconstruction Surgery Procedure
When women undergo surgery to treat breast cancer, they can also choose to rebuild the shape and look of their breasts with breast reconstruction surgery. The two common surgeries that help with breast cancer are –
Lumpectomy – This procedure helps treat the condition when cancer is present but has not yet spread.
Mastectomy – In this procedure, one or both of the breasts of the patient are removed either partially or entirely.
Breast reconstruction surgery can help make your chest look balanced, and you can regain your breast shape. As a result, you’ll feel more confident and better about your body.
Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
There are two main types of breast reconstruction surgery which include–
Flap reconstruction – In this procedure, surgeons take tissues from your body, specifically from the lower abdomen or thigh, and use them to form a breast.
Implant reconstruction – In this procedure, surgeons use saline or silicone implants to recreate the breast tissue.
Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
There are various perks of breast reconstruction surgery, such as –
This surgical procedure can help get the natural appearance of the affected breast back which will make you feel confident and boost your self-esteem.
It eliminates the need for prosthesis or breast forms and forms breasts that feel like natural parts of the body.
Lastly, surgery can help restore proportionality and balance of the breast and make them look symmetrical like before cancer.
Recovery After Breast Reconstruction Surgery
After the Surgery, you might feel tired and sore for a few weeks. However, your surgeon will give you medicine to control pain and discomfort. You may have to stay in the hospital for a few weeks so that the doctors can ensure you are healing properly. Moreover, you should follow the instructions of your doctor for the wound and drain care and wear support garments as advised.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery FAQs
Who is a good candidate for breast reconstruction surgery?
Breast reconstruction surgery is suitable for women who have undergone a mastectomy due to breast cancer. The best candidates are in good physical health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery.
Can I opt for breast reconstruction surgery immediately after mastectomy or lumpectomy?
It is a personal preference whether you opt for surgery at the time of mastectomy or not. However, in some cases, a woman is not a good candidate for reconstruction surgery at the time of mastectomy or lumpectomy because of certain medical conditions.
Are there any health risks of breast reconstruction?
Although breast reconstruction cosmetic surgery is safe, there are some health risks like – pain and tightness, thick scarring, or implant infection.
Can I shower after the breast reconstruction surgery?
It is advised to begin showering 48 hours after the surgery with warm and soapy water, as there is nothing to worry about if water comes in contact with incisions or drains.
What type of bra should I wear after the surgery?
You might get a surgical bra that helps hold drains in place, and in some cases, the surgeon may ask you to avoid wearing a bra. However, it is advised that one should not wear a bra with an underwire after the surgery.
Contact Dr. DeLozier for Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Nashville
Are you planning to undergo breast reconstruction surgery? If yes, you must have a lot of questions. We hope this post helped clear some of your confusion. If you are considering reconstruction, it is essential to discuss all of your options with a surgeon and make an informed decision. When searching for a reputed surgeon for breast reconstruction cosmetic surgery in Nashville, you can contact Dr. DeLozier. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Schedule a consultation to learn more!
